Leaflet engagement elements and methods for use thereof

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to apparatus for methods for endovascularly replacing a patient&#39;s heart valve. The apparatus includes an expandable anchor with leaflet engagement elements on the proximal end of the anchor and a replacement valve. The leaflet engagement elements can be used to prevent distal migration and insure proper positioning of the apparatus.

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application is a continuation-in-part application of application Ser. No. 10/746,240, filed Dec. 23, 2003 now abandoned, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and to which application we claim priority under 35 USC §120.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a heart valve. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a heart valve with a replacement valve using an expandable and retrievable anchor.

Heart valve surgery is used to repair or replace diseased heart valves. Valve surgery is an open-heart procedure conducted under general anesthesia. An incision is made through the patient's sternum (sternotomy), and the patient's heart is stopped while blood flow is rerouted through a heart-lung bypass machine.

Valve replacement may be indicated when there is a narrowing of the native heart valve, commonly referred to as stenosis, or when the native valve leaks or regurgitates. When replacing the valve, the native valve is excised and replaced with either a biologic or a mechanical valve. Mechanical valves require lifelong anticoagulant medication to prevent blood clot formation, and clicking of the valve often may be heard through the chest. Biologic tissue valves typically do not require such medication. Tissue valves may be obtained from cadavers or may be porcine or bovine, and are commonly attached to synthetic rings that are secured to the patient's heart.

Valve replacement surgery is a highly invasive operation with significant concomitant risk. Risks include bleeding, infection, stroke, heart attack, arrhythmia, renal failure, adverse reactions to the anesthesia medications, as well as sudden death. 2-5% of patients die during surgery.

Post-surgery, patients temporarily may be confused due to emboli and other factors associated with the heart-lung machine. The first 2-3 days following surgery are spent in an intensive care unit where heart functions can be closely monitored. The average hospital stay is between 1 to 2 weeks, with several more weeks to months required for complete recovery.

In recent years, advancements in minimally invasive surgery and interventional cardiology have encouraged some investigators to pursue percutaneous replacement of the aortic heart valve. However, the current devices suffer from several drawbacks.

First, many of the devices available today can become mispositioned with respect to the native valve. This is a critical drawback because improper positioning too far up towards the aorta risks blocking the coronary ostia of the patient. Furthermore, a misplaced stent/valve in the other direction (away from the aorta, closer to the ventricle) will impinge on the mitral apparatus and eventually wear through the leaflet as the leaflet continuously rubs against the edge of the stent/valve.

Moreover, some stent/valve devices simply crush the native valve leaflets against the heart wall and do not engage the leaflets in a manner that would provide positive registration of the device relative to the native position of the valve. This increases an immediate risk of blocking the coronary ostia, as well as a longer-term risk of migration of the device post-implantation.

Another drawback of the devices known today is that during implantation they may still require the patient to be on life support as the valve does not function for a portion of the procedure. This further complicates the implantation procedure.

Furtherstill, the stent comprises openings or gaps, thereby increasing a risk of improper seating of the valve within the stent and increasing the risk of paravalvular leaks. The interface between the stent and the native valve may additionally comprise gaps which again would increase the risks of paravalvular leaks.

In view of drawbacks associated with previously known techniques for endovascularly replacing a heart valve, it would be desirable to provide methods and apparatus that overcome those drawbacks.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. The apparatus includes: an expandable anchor and a replacement valve, wherein both are adapted for percutaneous delivery and deployment. The expandable anchor further includes a leaflet engagement element on its proximal end to engage the leaflets of the patient's heart valve. When the leaflets engagement element is engaged, the anchor is substantially distal to the coronary ostia of the patient. Moreover, once engaged, the leaflet engagement element prevents the distal movement of the anchor. In some embodiments, the leaflet engagement element is integral with the anchor or part of the anchor (especially when the anchor is an anchor braid). In other embodiments, the leaflet engagement element is attached to the proximal end of the anchor. In any of the embodiments herein, the anchor may be adapted for active foreshortening during deployment. Active foreshortening can occur by actuating the proximal and/or distal actuation elements of the anchor. The anchor herein may also be configured for locking and may include a locking element. The replacement valve of the apparatus herein is situated within the anchor and is adapted to permit blood flow and prevent blood backflow both during and after deployment.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: endovascularly delivering an anchor comprising a leaflet engagement element on its proximal end and a replacement valve supported within the anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve in a collapsed delivery configuration; unsheathing the anchor allowing it to take a relaxed configuration intermediate between its sheathed and expanded configurations; expanding the anchor; and, engaging the leaflet engagement element with the native leaflets. The expanding step may further comprise actively foreshortening the anchor. Active foreshortening can include actuating proximal and/or distal actuation elements of the anchor. The method may also include the step of locking the anchor after it is in its deployed configuration. In some embodiments, when the anchor engages the patient's heart, the anchor is substantially distal to the coronary ostia. In any of the embodiments herein, leaflet engagement element prevents the anchor from distally migrating at its proximal end.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic views of an anchor and valve apparatus in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 1A illustrates the apparatus in a collapsed delivery configuration within a delivery system. FIG. 1B illustrates the apparatus in an expanded configuration partially deployed from the delivery system.

FIG. 2 illustrates an anchor of FIG. 1 in the collapsed delivery configuration with locking elements separated.

FIG. 3 illustrates a braided anchor of the present invention with closed end turns Tu.

FIGS. 4A-4O are schematic detail views illustrating end turns for a braided anchor.

FIGS. 5A-5E illustrate additional features for end turns of a braided anchor.

FIGS. 6A-6F illustrate deployment of an anchor with leaflet engagement elements on the deployment system.

FIG. 7 illustrates a deployed anchor with leaflet engagement elements on the proximal end of the anchor.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate deployment of an anchor with anchor registration elements and a seal.

FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate an embodiment of the apparatus with a seal that does not reach the proximal end of the anchor during both systole and diastole.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate an embodiment of the apparatus with a seal that reaches the proximal end of the anchor during both systole and diastole.

FIGS. 11A-11D are schematic side views of various braided anchor configurations.

FIGS. 12A-12E are schematic side views of a deployment process for an anchor braid.

FIGS. 13A-13E are schematic views of different weave configurations for an anchor braid.

FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate an embodiment of a replacement heart valve and anchor in the undeployed and deployed configurations.

FIGS. 15A-H show yet another embodiment of a replacement heart valve, anchor and deployment system according to this invention.

FIGS. 16A-E show more detail of the anchor of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15A-H.

FIGS. 17A-B show other embodiments of the replacement heart valve and anchor of the invention.

FIGS. 18A-C illustrate a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's diseased heart valve.

FIGS. 19A-B show an anchor for use in a two-piece replacement heart valve and anchor embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 20A-B show a replacement heart valve for use in a two-piece replacement heart valve and anchor embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 21A-D show a method of coupling the anchor of FIG. 19 and the replacement heart valve of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 shows a delivery system for use with the apparatus shown in FIGS. 19-21.

FIG. 23 shows an alternative embodiment of a delivery system for use with the apparatus shown in FIGS. 19-21.

FIG. 24 shows yet another alternative embodiment of a delivery system for use with the apparatus shown in FIGS. 19-21.

FIGS. 25A-I illustrate a method of delivering and deploying a two-piece replacement heart valve and anchor.

FIGS. 26A-B show another embodiment of a two-piece replacement heart valve and anchor according to this invention.

FIG. 27 shows yet another embodiment of a two-piece replacement heart valve and anchor according to this invention.

FIG. 28 shows yet another embodiment of a two-piece replacement heart valve and anchor according to this invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus and methods for endovascularly delivering and deploying an aortic prosthesis within a patient's native heart valve, referred to here out as “replacing” a patient's heart valve. The delivery system includes a sheath assembly, a multi-lumen shaft, and a guide wire for placing the apparatus endovascularly within a patient and a user control allowing manipulation of the aortic prosthesis. The apparatus includes an anchor and a replacement valve. The anchor and the replacement valve are adapted for percutaneous delivery and deployment within a patient's heart valve. In preferred embodiments, the anchor includes a leaflet engagement element and/or a seal inverting element situated on its proximal end. The leaflet engagement element is adapted for engaging the native leaflets of the patient's heart, or more preferably the proximal edge and/or the commissural attachments of the native leaflets. The leaflet engagement element need not extend all the way into the pocket or the distal end of the native leaflet. Preferred embodiments of the apparatus herein are depicted in FIGS. 1-14, which are discussed in more detail below.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate one embodiment of a delivery system and the apparatus of the present invention.

As illustrated by FIG. 1A, apparatus 10 may be collapsed for delivery within a delivery system 100. Delivery system 100 includes a guidewire 102, a nosecone 104, anchor actuation elements 106 (in this case fingers) coupled to a multi-lumen shaft 108, an external sheath 110 having a proximal handle 111, and a control handle 120. Delivery system 100 further comprises distal region control elements (not shown), comprised of or actuated by control wires 112, which pass through one or more lumens of shaft 108 and are reversibly coupled to posts 32 of anchor 30 for manipulating a distal region of apparatus 10. Thus, the distal region control elements may function as a distal actuation element.

The delivery system also comprises proximal region control elements comprised of or actuated by control wires 112 that pass through one or more lumens of shaft 108 and anchor actuation elements 106 to reversibly couple the control tubes to a proximal region of anchor 30. The control wires may comprise, for example, strands of suture, or metal or polymer wires. Control handle 120 is coupled to multi-lumen shaft 108. In some embodiments, these fingers and wires may be referred to as proximal actuation elements. A knob 122 disposed in slot 123 is coupled to the distal region control wires for controlling movement of the distal region of apparatus 10. Likewise, a knob 124 disposed in slot 125 is coupled to proximal region control wires 112 for control of the proximal region of apparatus 10. Handle 120 may also have a knob 126 for, e.g., decoupling the proximal and/or distal region control wires from apparatus 10, or for performing other control functions.

As illustrated by FIG. 1B, apparatus 10 comprises an anchor 30 and a replacement valve 20. Anchor 30 preferably comprises a braid. Such braid can have closed ends at either or both of its ends but preferably at least in its proximal end. Replacement valve 20 is preferably coupled to the anchor at posts 32 attached at distal region of the anchor. Post 32 therefore, may function as valve support and may be adapted to support the replacement valve within the anchor. In the embodiment shown, there are three posts, corresponding to the valve's three commissure attachments. The posts can be attached to braid portion of anchor 30. The posts can be attached to the braid's distal end, as shown in FIG. 2, central region, or proximal end. Replacement valve 20 can be composed of a metal, a synthetic material and/or may be derived from animal tissue. Replacement valve 20 is preferably configured to be secured within anchor 30.

In preferred embodiments, anchor 30 is collapsible and/or expandable and is formed from material such as Nitinol™, cobalt-chromium steel or stainless steel wire. More preferably, an anchor 30 is self-collapsing and/or self-expanding and is made out of shape memory material, such as Nitinol™. An anchor composed of shape memory material may self-expand to or toward its “at-rest” configuration. This “at rest” configuration of an anchor can be, for example its expanded configuration, its collapsed configuration, or a partially expanded configuration (between the collapsed configuration and the expanded configuration). In preferred embodiments, an anchor's at-rest configuration is between its collapsed configuration and its expanded configuration. Depending on the “at rest” diameter of the anchor and the diameter of the patient's anatomy at the chosen deployment location, the anchor may or may not self-expand to come into contact with the diameter of the patient's anatomy at that location.

Anchor 30 may be expanded to a fully deployed configuration from a partial deployed configuration (e.g., self-expanded configuration) by actively foreshortening anchor 30 during endovascular deployment. Active foreshortening is described in more detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/746,280, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. During active foreshortening, the distal region of anchor 30 may be pulled proximally via a proximally directed force applied to posts 32 via a distal deployment system interface comprised of the distal system control elements. The distal deployment system interface is adapted to expand radially during application of a proximally directed force on the distal end of the anchor when opposed by a distally directed force applied to the proximal end of the anchor.

In some embodiments, actuating foreshortening of the apparatus involves applying a proximally directed force on a deployment system interface at the distal end of the anchor, while maintaining the proximal end of the anchor in the same location. In other embodiments, foreshortening of the apparatus involves applying a distally directed force on proximal end of the anchor (e.g., by applying a distally directed force on the anchor actuation elements).

Anchor actuation elements 106 (e.g., fingers, tubes, posts, and control wires connecting to posts) are preferably adapted to expand radially as the anchor expands radially and to contract radially as the anchor contracts radially. Furthermore, proximally or distally directed forces by the anchor actuation elements on one end of the anchor do not diametrically constrain the opposite end of the anchor. In addition, when a proximally or distally directed force is applied on the anchor by the anchor actuation elements, it is preferably applied without passing any portion of a deployment system through a center opening of the replacement valve. This arrangement enables the replacement valve to operate during deployment and before removal of the deployment system.

The distal deployment system interface may include control wires that are controlled, e.g., by control knob 122 of control handle 120. Similarly, the proximal regions of anchor 30 may be pushed distally via a proximal deployment system interface at the proximal end of the anchor. The proximal deployment system interface is adapted to permit deployment system to apply a distally directed force to the proximal end of anchor 30 through, e.g., fingers, which are controlled by, e.g., control knob 124 of control handle 120. The proximal deployment system interface may be further adapted to expand radially during application of a distally directed force on the proximal end of the anchor. Preferably, the proximal deployment system interface is adapted to permit deployment system to apply a distally directed force on the proximal end of the anchor system through a plurality of deployment system fingers or tubes 160. Such expansion optionally may be assisted via inflation of a balloon catheter (not shown) reversibly disposed within apparatus 10, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/746,280.

Once anchor 30 is fully deployed, posts 32 and buckles 34 of anchor 30 may be used to lock and maintain the anchor in the deployed configuration. In one embodiment, the control wires attached to posts 32 are threaded through buckles 34 so that the proximally directed force exerted on posts 32 by the control wires during deployment pulls the proximal locking end of posts 32 toward and through buckles 34. Such lock optionally may be selectively reversible to allow for repositioning and/or retrieval of apparatus 10 during or post-deployment. Apparatus 10 may be repositioned or retrieved from the patient until the two-part locking mechanism of posts 32 and buckles 34 of anchor 30 have been actuated. When the lock is selectively reversible, the apparatus may be repositioned and/or retrieved as desired, e.g., even after actuation of the two-part locking mechanism. Once again, further details of this and other anchor locking structures may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/746,280. Locking mechanisms used herein may also include a plurality of levels of locking wherein each level of locking results in a different amount of expansion. For example, the proximal end of the post can have multiple configurations for locking within the buckle wherein each configuration results in a different amount of anchor expansion. FIG. 2 illustrates a braided anchor of FIG. 1 in the collapsed delivery configuration with locking elements separated.

FIG. 3 provides a detail view of a front side region of anchor braid 30 with closed end turns Tu. Anchor braid 30 includes various cells, some having an end turn (Tu). End turns can serve various functions. For example, end turns can be configured to reduce the sheathing force, to reduce stress within the braid during delivery and deployment, to prevent distal migration during expansion of the anchor, and/or to positively register the anchor against the native valve during deployment. In preferred embodiments, an end turn feature functions to prevent distal migration and to register the anchor by engaging the native leaflets. In preferred embodiments, the proximal end of an anchor comprises embodiments (Tu).

FIGS. 4A-4N provide multiple examples of edge cells having end turn feature. The end turn features disclosed and others known in the art may be used as leaflet engagement elements to engage the native heart leaflets with the anchor. The leaflet engagement elements are preferably integral with the anchor, or more preferably part of a braided anchor. The end turn features can occur at the proximal end, the distal end, or both proximal and distal ends of the anchor.

For example, FIG. 4A illustrates a detail view of a standard end turn Tu in an anchor braid resulting in a braid with substantially uniform cell size and shape.

FIG. 4B illustrates a turn that has been elongated to lengthen the distance over which forces concentrated in the turn may be distributed, resulting in an anchor braid having edge cells that are longer along the anchor axis than the other cells defined by the braid. This elongated turn feature may be formed by routing the wire of braid about outer posts and then heat setting the wire.

FIG. 4C illustrates an alternative anchor edge cell configuration, wherein the tip of the elongated wire turn may be bent out of a cylindrical shape defined by the braid of anchor braid 30. This may be achieved, for example, via a combination of routing of wire W within a fixture and then heat setting. Such a turn Tu in the anchor edge cells in FIG. 4C may reduce stress in some configurations without increasing height, and may also provide a lip for engaging the patient's native valve leaflets to facilitate proper positioning of apparatus 10 during deployment.

In FIG. 4D, a W-shaped turn feature has been formed at the wire turn, e.g., by routing the wire of anchor braid 30 about a central inner post and two flanking outer posts. As with the elongated braid cells of FIGS. 4B and 4C, the W-shape may better distribute stress about turn Tu.

The anchor edge cell configuration in FIG. 4E includes a loop formed in braid 30 at the turn, which may be formed by looping wire W around an inner or outer post.

FIG. 4F provides another alternative anchor edge cell configuration having a figure-eight shape. Such a shape may be formed, for example, by wrapping wire W about an inner post and an aligned outer post in a figure-eight fashion, and then heat setting the wire in the resultant shape.

In FIG. 4G, the edge cells of braid 30 include a heart-shaped configuration, which may be formed by wrapping the wire about an aligned inner and outer post in the desired manner.

In FIG. 4H, the edge cells of braid 30 have an asymmetric loop at turn Tu. The asymmetric loop will affect twisting of braid 30 during expansion and collapse of the braid, in addition to affecting stress concentration.

In FIG. 4I, the anchor edge cells have a double-looped turn configuration, e.g. via wrapping about two adjacent inner or outer posts. Additional loops may also be employed.

The double loop turn feature may be formed with a smooth transition between the loops, as in FIG. 4I, or may be heat set with a more discontinuous shape, as in FIG. 4J.

FIG. 4K illustrates that the edge cells of braid 30 may have multiple different configurations about the anchor's circumference. For example, the anchor edge cells shown in FIG. 4K have extended length cells as in FIG. 4B disposed adjacent to standard size edge cells, as in FIG. 4A.

The anchor edge cells of FIG. 4L have an extended turn configuration having an extended loop.

The anchor edge cells shown in FIG. 4M have an alternative extended configuration with a specified heat set profile.

In FIG. 4N, some or all anchor edge cells are interwoven. When interwoven, one or more edge cells may be shorter or longer than an adjacent edge cell. This permits one or more edge cells to extend into one or more leaflet pocket(s). For example, in FIG. 4N the middle Tu may be taller than the two adjacent edge cells thus permitting the edge cell to be situated within a leaflet pocket.

In any of the embodiments herein, edge cells may be wrapped using wire, string, or sutures, at a location where the wire overlaps after an end turn as is illustrated in FIG. 4O. This tied-end turn feature prevents cells from interlocking with each other during deployment.

The anchor and any of its features may be heat set at different configurations. For example, the anchor may be heat set ay its “at rest” configuration such that upon unsheathing it expands radially. The end turn features/leaflet engagement elements may be heat set at a different “at rest” configuration than the rest of the anchor. In preferred embodiment, end turn features are heat set to “flower” and then “evert” upon unsheathing.

The end turn features of FIG. 4 are provided only for the sake of illustration and should in no way be construed as limiting. Additional turn features within the scope of the present invention will apparent to those of skill in the art in view of FIG. 4. Furthermore, combinations of any such end turn features may be provided to achieve the desired characteristics of anchor 30.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A-E, additional configurations for reducing stress concentration and/or circumferential stiffness of an anchor braid and/or leaflet engagement elements are illustrated. Such configurations can be used independently or in conjunction with other configurations disclosed herein. Such configurations are preferably used at the anchor's edges to locally reduce the cross-sectional area of substantially all cells or all cells in the anchor braid's edge (e.g., proximal and/or distal). As seen in FIGS. 5A and 5B, turns Tu in wire W typically may have a substantially continuous (e.g., round) cross-sectional profile. As seen in FIG. 5C, modifying the edge cell configuration by locally reducing the thickness or cross-sectional area of wire W at turn(s) Tu will reduce stress concentration within the wire at the turns and facilitate collapse and/or expansion of anchor braid 30 from the delivery to the deployed configurations. Furthermore, it is expected that such localized reduction in thickness or cross-sectional area will reduce a risk of kinking, fatigue or other failure at turns Tu.

In any of the embodiments herein, localized reduction of an anchor wire may be achieved via a localized etching and/or electropolishing process. Alternatively or additionally, localized grinding of the turns may be utilized. Additional processing techniques will be apparent to those of skill in the art. As seen in FIGS. 5D-5E, wire W may, for example, comprise an oval or rectangular cross-sectional profile, respectively, after localized reduction. The wire alternatively may comprise a round profile of reduced cross-sectional area (not shown). Additional profiles will be apparent. Localized reduction can take place at any time (e.g., before or after a braid is woven). Preferably, localized reduction occurs after weaving. However, in some embodiments, a wire of a given length may be etched or ground at preset segments and subsequently woven.

With reference now to FIGS. 6A-F, a method of endovascularly replacing a patient's diseased aortic valve is provided. The method involves endovascularly delivering an anchor/valve apparatus and properly positioning such apparatus via positive registration with the patient's native valve leaflets. Registration with the native valve leaflet preferably occurs using the leaflet engagement elements.

In FIG. 6A, modified delivery system 100′ delivers apparatus 10 to diseased aortic valve AV within sheath 110. Apparatus 10 is delivered in a collapsed delivery configuration.

As seen in FIGS. 6B and 6C, apparatus 10 is deployed from lumen 112 of sheath 110, for example, under fluoroscopic guidance. Sheath 110 includes at its distal end leaflet engagement elements 120. Upon deployment, anchor 30 of apparatus 10 dynamically self-expands to a partially deployed configuration. This causes tubes 60 to also dynamically expand, as well as membrane filter (or braid) 61A and leaflet engagement elements 120. As when deployed via delivery system 100, deployment of apparatus 10 via delivery system 100′ is fully reversible until locks 40 have been actuated.

Thus, delivery system 100′ comprises leaflet engagement element 120, which preferably self-expands along with anchor 30. In preferred embodiments, the distal end of leaflet engagement elements 120 expands a greater radial distance than anchor 30. Moreover, engagement elements 120 may be disposed between tubes 60 of delivery system 100′ and lip region 32 of anchor 30. However, leaflet engagement elements 120 may also be disposed on the proximal end of an anchor (as is illustrated in FIG. 7). Leaflet engagement elements 120 releasably engage the anchor. As seen in FIG. 6C, the leaflet engagement elements 120 are initially deployed proximal of the patient's native valve leaflets L. Apparatus 10 and element 120 then may be advanced/dynamically repositioned until engagement element positively registers against the leaflets, thereby ensuring proper positioning of apparatus 10. The leaflet engagement element engages with the proximal edges of the native valve leaflets and/or the commissural attachments. The leaflet engagement element need not extend all the way to the distal edge of the native leaflets (the leaflet pockets). In preferred embodiments, a leaflet engagement element length is less than about 20 mm, more preferably less than about 15 mm, or more preferably less than about 10 mm. Once leaflet engagement element 120 is registered against the native valve leaflets and/or commissural attachments, apparatus 10 deploys substantially distal to the coronary ostia of the heart.

In any of the embodiments herein, delivery system 100′ can include filter structure 61A (e.g., filter membrane or braid) as part of push tubes 60 to act as an embolic protection element. Emboli can be generated during manipulation and placement of anchor from either diseased native leaflet or surrounding aortic tissue and can cause blockage. Arrows 61B in FIG. 6C show blood flow through filter structure 61A where blood is allowed to flow but emboli is trapped in the delivery system and removed with it at the end of the procedure.

Active foreshortening may be imposed upon anchor 30 while element 120 is disposed proximal of the leaflets, as is illustrated in FIG. 6D. Active foreshortening can be accomplished by actuating distal anchor actuation elements (e.g., wires 50) and/or proximal anchor actuation elements (e.g., tubes 60). Upon positive registration of element 120 against leaflets L, element 120 precludes further distal migration of apparatus 10 during additional foreshortening, thereby reducing a risk of improperly positioning the apparatus. FIG. 6E details engagement of element 120 against the native leaflets.

As seen in FIG. 6F, once apparatus 10 is fully deployed, anchor 30 may be locked (reversibly or irreversibly). Subsequently, structure 61A leaflet engagement, elements 120, wires 50 and/or tubes 60 may be decoupled from the apparatus, and delivery system 100′ may be removed from the patient, thereby completing the procedure.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of FIGS. 6A-F described above, wherein leaflet engagement elements 120 are coupled to anchor 30 of apparatus 10′ rather than to delivery system 100. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, leaflet engagement elements 120 remain implanted near the patient's native heart valve after the deployment of apparatus 10′ and removal of delivery system 100. Leaflets L may be sandwiched between the proximal region of anchor 30 and leaflet engagement element 120 in the fully deployed configuration. In this manner, element 120 positively registers apparatus 10′ relative to the leaflets L and precludes distal migration of the apparatus over time.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate another embodiment for endovascularly delivering an apparatus of the present invention. In FIG. 8A, a catheter 600 is delivered percutaneously in a retrograde fashion to the aortic valve. The catheter passes through the native aortic valve before an operator actuates the unseathing of the anchor/valve apparatus. As the sheathing catheter is pulled proximally out of the native valve, anchor 30 and replacement valve 20 become unsheathed. Immediately the portion of the unsheathed anchor 30 dynamically self-expands to its “at rest” position, and replacement valve 20 within the anchor regains an uncollapsed structure, allowing it to begin to function. In preferred embodiments in its “at rest” position, anchor 30 presses against the native leaflets limiting blood from flowing in between the anchor and leaflet. Also, in preferred embodiments, anchor 30 portions relatively adjacent to the valve is externally covered by a seal 60, more preferably the entire exterior contour of anchor 30 excluding the leaflet engagement elements is externally covered by a seal, or more preferably the entire contour of anchor 30 including the external face of the leaflet engagement elements is externally covered by a seal. A seal can be composed of any material that prevents or limits the flow of blood through the anchor. In preferred embodiments, a seal is composed of a thin, elastic polymer or any other type of fabric. The seal can be attached by any means known in the art to the anchor and, in some embodiments, to the distal end of the valve. In preferred embodiments, a seal is attached to the anchor by suturing.

In FIG. 8B, as the catheter is further pulled proximally, the proximal end of anchor 30 and fingers 50 are unsheathed. In this embodiment, it is possible to visualize that the seal covers the entire contour of the anchor including the external face of the leaflet engagement element 70. As soon as the proximal end of the anchor is exposed, it also dynamically expands. Furthermore, when fingers 50 become exposed, replacement valve 20 begins to function permitting blood to flow through replacement valve 20, between fingers 50, and around the catheter 600. This also permits blood to flow into the coronary ostias. In other embodiments where the seal does not cover the proximal end of the anchor, the replacement valve can begin to function as soon as the unsealed portion of the anchor is unsheathed. This causes the leaflet engagement elements 70 to radially expand to their heat set position and engage with the native heart leaflets.

Next, FIG. 8C, as the apparatus is actively foreshortened using proximal (e.g., fingers) and/or distal actuators (e.g., wires 50), the leaflet engagement elements positively register with the native valve leaflets. Foreshortening can cause seal 60 to bunch up and create pleats. These pleats can then fill pockets thereby improving the paravalvular seal. In preferred embodiments, wherein the leaflet engagement elements are covered with a seal, at least a portion of the seal is also positioned between the native valve leaflets and the aortic wall. Once the anchor is fully compressed within the aortic valve, the anchor is locked, the fingers and post mandrels are disengaged, and the seal is adapted to further limit blood flow around the replacement valve. The catheter is subsequently withdrawn, leaving behind valve 20, seal 60 and anchor 70. When ftilly deployed, the anchor is substantially distal to the coronary ostia of the patient such that it will not interfere with blood flow through the ostia.

FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate an embodiment wherein only a distal portion anchor 30 is covered by seal 60 and wherein anchor 30 is only partially deployed since the blood can escape through the proximal end of the anchor braid. As anchor 30 in this embodiment is unsheathed, it presses against the native valve leaflets. At this point replacement valve 20 is functional even though anchor 30 is not fully deployed since blood can escape through the proximal end of the anchor braid. This allows blood to flow through replacement valve 20 and out of holes in the distal end of anchor 30 during systole (FIG. 9A) while preventing backflow during diastole (FIG. 9B).

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate a similar embodiment wherein seal 60 around anchor 30 surrounds the entire contour of anchor 30. In this embodiment, valve 20 does not become functional until both anchor 30 and a portion of fingers 50 are unsheathed. As soon as a portion of fingers 50 is unsheathed, replacement valve 20 is fully functional. This allows blood to flow through replacement valve 20 and anchor 30, out of fingers 50, and around catheter 60 into the aorta and coronary ostias during systole. Similarly, during diastole, replacement valve 20 closes preventing blood backflow from entering the chamber.

In any of the embodiments herein the anchor is preferably a self-expanding anchor braid. Anchor braid of the present invention can be made from one or more wires, more preferably 2-20 wires, more preferably 3-15 wires, or more preferably 4-10 wires. Moreover, the density of the braid can be modified by various forms of weave used.

FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate various anchor braid embodiments contemplated by the present invention.

FIG. 11A illustrates two groups of cells or two braids interwoven in the center. The top group of cells forms a more open weave than the bottom group of cells, which forms a denser weave.

FIG. 11B illustrates another embodiment of an anchor braid having three groups of cells. The top and bottom (proximal and distal) edges of the anchor braid have denser cells than the central portion of the anchor. Also, the edges of the anchor are woven from a thinner filament than the central portion.

In another embodiment illustrated by FIG. 11C, all three sections of an anchor valve are woven by more than one wire. The wires of each section are made of a different material and/or thickness. Wires at the sectional boundaries may or may not interconnect with wires from a different section. Each of the sections of the braid anchor may be composed of a different number of wires.

FIG. 11D illustrates another embodiment of a braided anchor having three sections. In this embodiment, all sections are composed of a single wire. The proximal and distal sections/edges of the braided anchor have the same pitch. The central region of the braided anchor has a different pitch than the edge sections.

FIGS. 12A-12E illustrate side views of braided anchor having more than one braid pitch. Varying pitch within the anchor allows localized variations in foreshortening across the anchor, as greater foreshortening is achieved by higher pitch of the braid. Moreover, the localized foreshortening features allow for the design of a braid which incorporates various diameters depending upon the amount of foreshortening. (The greater the foreshortening, the greater the diameter increase upon deployment.)

FIG. 12A, is a side view representation of the braided anchor of FIG. 11D. On the left side of the figure, the expanded anchor is illustrated having a denser weave (shorter pitch) at the distal and proximal ends; hence the dots are located closer to each other. The middle section of the anchor is composed of a looser weave that is generated by a higher pitch braid and is represented by dots that are farther away from each other. On the right side of the figure, the braided anchor is foreshortened and the dots are collapsed closer to each other. In this case, the central portion of the anchor foreshortened more than the proximal and distal edges.

FIG. 12B illustrates a side view of a foreshortened braided anchor that is created by low pitch at the edges and high pitch in the middle.

FIG. 12C illustrates a side view of a foreshortened braided anchor that is created by high pitch edges and low pitch middle section.

FIG. 12D illustrates a side view of a foreshortened braided anchor that includes a sealing feature or space filling feature at both ends. This type of anchor can be created by a high pitch braid at edges, low pitch braid in the middle and heat setting the edges to curl upon unsheathing. These end features can be useful in facilitating anchoring by functioning as a locator and/or sealing. In preferred embodiment the curled ends of the anchor in FIG. 12D can be used as leaflet engagement elements.

FIG. 12E illustrates a side view of a foreshortened braided anchor that is associated with an everting valve or locational features. In preferred embodiments, the middle section of the anchor may be composed of thicker wire(s) than edge section(s). The everting feature at the proximal end can function as a leaflet engagement element as disclosed herein.

FIGS. 13A-13E illustrate an example of the process of deploying an anchor, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 12B above.

FIG. 13A illustrates a braided anchor 30 in its expanded or elongated configuration. The anchor is composed of three sections. The distal and proximal sections of the anchor are made of a fine weave, low pitch braid and the middle section of the anchor is made of a thicker thread and higher pitch braid. The distal and proximal section are preferably heat set to roll upon unsheathing, though some rolling may occur simply from active for shortening of the fine weave braid. In preferred embodiments, the filaments of the fine weave braid are less than 0.01 cm, or more preferably less than 0.005 cm in thickness. On the other hand, thicker filaments of the middle section are preferably 0.01 cm or greater in thickness or more preferably 0.015 cm or greater in thickness. Posts 32 are coupled to the middle section of the anchor. For deployment, tubes (or fingers) 106 are coupled to the anchor's middle section.

FIG. 13B illustrates an anchor during the process of deployment after the anchor is unsheathed. The anchor is pushed distally by tubes and pulled proximally by wires and begins foreshortening. In some embodiment the distal section rolls up and can act as a locator, assisting the operator in locating the aortic valve, or as a seal preventing leakage. In some embodiments, the proximal section may roll down and be used as a leaflet engagement element to prevent distal migration or as a proximal seal.

In FIG. 13C, the device may be configured such that the middle section of the valve may form an hour glass shape or a round shape. The tubes may subsequently be removed as described before.

FIG. 13D is another illustration of the braided anchor in its elongated configuration.

FIG. 13E is another illustration of the braided anchor in its foreshortened configuration.

FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate the process of forming a pleated seal around a replacement valve to prevent leakage. FIG. 14A illustrates a fabric seal 380 prior to deployment and foreshortening of the anchor/valve apparatus. In FIG. 14A, the fabric seal 380 extends from the distal end of valve 20 proximally over anchor 30 during delivery. During deployment, as illustrated in FIG. 14B, anchor 30 foreshortens and the fabric seal 380 bunches up to create fabric flaps and pockets that extend into spaces formed by the native valve leaflets 382. The bunched up fabric or pleats occur, in particular, when the pockets are filled with blood in response to backflow blood pressure. The pleating can create a seal around the replacement valve. FIG. 14C illustrates anchor 30, surrounded by fabric seal 380 in between native valve leaflets 382. In preferred embodiments, at least a portion of a seal is captured between the leaflets and the wall of the heart when the anchor is fully deployed.

FIGS. 15A-H show another embodiment of a replacement heart valve apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Apparatus 450 comprises replacement valve 460 (see FIGS. 17B and 18C) disposed within and coupled to anchor 470. Replacement valve 460 is preferably biologic, e.g. porcine, but alternatively may be synthetic. Anchor 470 preferably is fabricated from self-expanding materials, such as a stainless steel wire mesh or a nickel-titanium alloy (“Nitinol”), and comprises lip region 472, skirt region 474, and body regions 476 a, 476 b and 476 c. Replacement valve 460 preferably is coupled to skirt region 474, but alternatively may be coupled to other regions of the anchor. As described hereinbelow, lip region 472 and skirt region 474 are configured to expand and engage/capture a patient's native valve leaflets, thereby providing positive registration, reducing paravalvular regurgitation, reducing device migration, etc.

As seen in FIG. 15A, apparatus 450 is collapsible to a delivery configuration, wherein the apparatus may be delivered via delivery system 410. Delivery system 410 comprises sheath 420 having lumen 422, as well as wires 424 a and 424 b seen in FIGS. 15D-15G. Wires 424 a are configured to expand skirt region 474 of anchor 470, as well as replacement valve 460 coupled thereto, while wires 424 b are configured to expand lip region 472.

As seen in FIG. 15B, apparatus 450 may be delivered and deployed from lumen 422 of catheter 420 while the apparatus is disposed in the collapsed delivery configuration. As seen in FIGS. 15B-15D, catheter 420 is retracted relative to apparatus 450, which causes anchor 470 to dynamically self-expand to a partially deployed configuration. Wires 424 a are then retracted to expand skirt region 474, as seen in FIGS. 15E and 15F. Preferably, such expansion may be maintained via locking features described hereinafter.

In FIG. 15G, wires 424 b are retracted to expand lip region 472 and fully deploy apparatus 450. As with skirt region 474, expansion of lip region 472 preferably may be maintained via locking features. After both lip region 472 and skirt region 474 have been expanded, wires 424 may be removed from apparatus 450, thereby separating delivery system 410 from the apparatus. Delivery system 410 then may be removed, as seen in FIG. 15H.

As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, lip region 472 optionally may be expanded prior to expansion of skirt region 474. As yet another alternative, lip region 472 and skirt region 474 optionally may be expanded simultaneously, in parallel, in a step-wise fashion or sequentially. Advantageously, delivery of apparatus 450 is fully reversible until lip region 472 or skirt region 474 has been locked in the expanded configuration.

With reference now to FIGS. 16A-E, individual cells of anchor 470 of apparatus 450 are described to detail deployment and expansion of the apparatus. In FIG. 16A, individual cells of lip region 472, skirt region 474 and body regions 476 a, 476 b and 476 c are shown in the collapsed delivery configuration, as they would appear while disposed within lumen 422 of sheath 420 of delivery system 410 of FIG. 15. A portion of the cells forming body regions 476, for example, every ‘nth’ row of cells, comprises locking features.

Body region 476 a comprises male interlocking element 482 of lip lock 480, while body region 476 b comprises female interlocking element 484 of lip lock 480. Male element 482 comprises eyelet 483. Wire 424 b passes from female interlocking element 484 through eyelet 483 and back through female interlocking element 484, such that there is a double strand of wire 424 b that passes through lumen 422 of catheter 420 for manipulation by a medical practitioner external to the patient. Body region 476 b further comprises male interlocking element 492 of skirt lock 490, while body region 476 c comprises female interlocking element 494 of the skirt lock. Wire 424 a passes from female interlocking element 494 through eyelet 493 of male interlocking element 492, and back through female interlocking element 494. Lip lock 480 is configured to maintain expansion of lip region 472, while skirt lock 490 is configured to maintain expansion of skirt region 474.

In FIG. 16B, anchor 470 is shown in the partially deployed configuration, e.g., after deployment from lumen 422 of sheath 420. Body regions 476, as well as lip region 472 and skirt region 474, self-expand to the partially deployed configuration. Full deployment is then achieved by retracting wires 424 relative to anchor 470, and expanding lip region 472 and skirt region 474 outward, as seen in FIGS. 16C and 16D. As seen in FIG. 16E, expansion continues until the male elements engage the female interlocking elements of lip lock 480 and skirt lock 490, thereby maintaining such expansion (lip lock 480 shown in FIG. 16E). Advantageously, deployment of apparatus 450 is fully reversible until lip lock 480 and/or skirt lock 490 has been actuated.

With reference to FIGS. 17A-B, isometric views, partially in section, further illustrate apparatus 450 in the fully deployed and expanded configuration. FIG. 17A illustrates the wireframe structure of anchor 470, while FIG. 17B illustrates an embodiment of anchor 470 covered in a biocompatible material B. Placement of replacement valve 460 within apparatus 450 may be seen in FIG. 17B. The patient's native valve is captured between lip region 472 and skirt region 474 of anchor 470 in the frilly deployed configuration (see FIG. 18B).

Referring to FIGS. 18A-C, in conjunction with FIGS. 15 and 16, a method for endovascularly replacing a patient's diseased aortic valve with apparatus 450 is described. Delivery system 410, having apparatus 450 disposed therein, is endovascularly advanced, preferably in a retrograde fashion, through a patient's aorta A to the patient's diseased aortic valve AV. Sheath 420 is positioned such that its distal end is disposed within left ventricle LV of the patient's heart H. As described with respect to FIG. 15, apparatus 450 is deployed from lumen 422 of sheath 420, for example, under fluoroscopic guidance, such that skirt section 474 is disposed within left ventricle LV, body section 476 b is disposed across the patient's native valve leaflets L, and lip section 472 is disposed within the patient's aorta A. Advantageously, apparatus 450 may be dynamically repositioned to obtain proper alignment with the anatomical landmarks. Furthermore, apparatus 450 may be retracted within lumen 422 of sheath 420 via wires 424, even after anchor 470 has dynamically expanded to the partially deployed configuration, for example, to abort the procedure or to reposition sheath 420.

Once properly positioned, wires 424 a are retracted to expand skirt region 474 of anchor 470 within left ventricle LV. Skirt region 474 is locked in the expanded configuration via skirt lock 490, as previously described with respect to FIG. 16. In FIG. 18A, skirt region 474 is maneuvered such that it engages the patient's valve annulus An and/or native valve leaflets L, thereby providing positive registration of apparatus 450 relative to the anatomical landmarks.

Wires 424 b are then actuated external to the patient in order to expand lip region 472, as previously described in FIG. 15. Lip region 472 is locked in the expanded configuration via lip lock 480. Advantageously, deployment of apparatus 450 is fully reversible until lip lock 480 and/or skirt lock 490 has been actuated. Wires 424 are pulled from eyelets 483 and 493, and delivery system 410 is removed from the patient. As will be apparent, the order of expansion of lip region 472 and skirt region 474 may be reversed, concurrent, etc.

As seen in FIG. 18B, lip region 472 engages the patient's native valve leaflets L, thereby providing additional positive registration and reducing a risk of lip region 472 blocking the patient's coronary ostia 0. FIG. 18C illustrates the same in cross-sectional view, while also showing the position of replacement valve 460. The patient's native leaflets are engaged and/or captured between lip region 472 and skirt region 474. Advantageously, lip region 472 precludes distal migration of apparatus 450, while skirt region 474 precludes proximal migration. It is expected that lip region 472 and skirt region 474 also will reduce paravalvular regurgitation.

With reference to FIGS. 19-21, a first embodiment of two-piece apparatus of the present invention adapted for percutaneous replacement of a patient's heart valve is described. As seen in FIG. 21, apparatus 510 comprises a two-piece device having custom-designed expandable anchor piece 550 of FIG. 19 and expandable replacement valve piece 600 of FIG. 20. Both anchor piece 550 and valve piece 600 have reduced delivery configurations and expanded deployed configurations. Both may be either balloon expandable (e.g. fabricated from a stainless steel) or self-expanding (e.g. fabricated from a nickel-titanium alloy (“Nitinol”) or from a wire mesh) from the delivery to the deployed configurations.

When replacing a patient's aortic valve, apparatus 510 preferably may be delivered through the patient's aorta without requiring a transseptal approach, thereby reducing patient trauma, complications and recovery time. Furthermore, apparatus 510 enables dynamic repositioning of anchor piece 550 during delivery and facilitates positive registration of apparatus 510 relative to the native position of the patient's valve, thereby reducing a risk of device migration and reducing a risk of blocking or impeding flow to the patient's coronary ostia. Furthermore, the expanded deployed configuration of apparatus 510, as seen in FIG. 21D, is adapted to reduce paravalvular regurgitation, as well as to facilitate proper seating of valve piece 600 within anchor piece 550.

As seen in FIG. 19, anchor piece 550 preferably comprises three sections. Lip section 560 is adapted to engage the patient's native valve leaflets to provide positive registration and ensure accurate placement of the anchor relative to the patient's valve annulus during deployment, while allowing for dynamic repositioning of the anchor during deployment. Lip section 560 also maintains proper positioning of composite anchor/valve apparatus 510 post-deployment to preclude distal migration. Lip section 560 optionally may be covered or coated with biocompatible film B (see FIG. 21) to ensure engagement of the native valve leaflets. It is expected that covering lip section 560 with film B especially would be indicated when the native leaflets are stenosed and/or fused together

Groove section 570 of anchor piece 550 is adapted to engage an expandable frame portion, described hereinbelow, of valve piece 600 to couple anchor piece 550 to valve piece 600. As compared to previously known apparatus, groove section 570 comprises additional material and reduced openings or gaps G, which is expected to reduce tissue protrusion through the gaps upon deployment, thereby facilitating proper seating of the valve within the anchor. Groove section 570 optionally may be covered or coated with biocompatible film B (see FIG. 21) to further reduce native valve tissue protrusion through gaps G.

Finally, skirt section 580 of anchor piece 550 maintains proper positioning of composite anchor/valve apparatus 510 post-deployment by precluding proximal migration. When replacing a patient's aortic valve, skirt section 580 is deployed within the patient's left ventricle. As with lip section 560 and groove section 570, skirt section 580 optionally may be covered or coated with biocompatible film B (see FIG. 21) to reduce paravalvular regurgitation. As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, all, a portion of, or none of anchor piece 50 may be covered or coated with biocompatible film B.

In FIG. 19A, a portion of anchor piece 550 has been flattened out to illustrate the basic anchor cell structure, as well as to illustrate techniques for manufacturing anchor piece 550. In order to form the entire anchor, anchor 550 would be bent at the locations indicated in FIG. 19A, and the basic anchor cell structure would be revolved to form a joined 360° structure. Lip section 560 would be bent back into the page to form a lip that doubles over the groove section, groove section 570 would be bent out of the page into a ‘C’- or ‘U’-shaped groove, while skirt section 580 would be bent back into the page. FIG. 19B shows the anchor portion after bending and in an expanded deployed configuration.

The basic anchor cell structure seen in FIG. 19A is preferably formed through laser cutting of a flat sheet or of a hollow tube placed on a mandrel. When formed from a flat sheet, the sheet would be cut to the required number of anchor cells, bent to the proper shape, and revolved to form a cylinder. The ends of the cylinder would then be joined together, for example, by heat welding.

If balloon expandable, anchor piece 550 would be formed from an appropriate material, such as stainless steel, and then crimped onto a balloon delivery catheter in a collapsed delivery configuration. If self-expanding and formed from a shape-memory material, such as a nickel-titanium alloy (“Nitinol”), the anchor piece would be heat-set such that it could be constrained within a sheath in the collapsed delivery configuration, and then would dynamically self-expand to the expanded deployed configuration upon removal of the sheath. Likewise, if anchor piece 550 were formed from a wire mesh or braid, such as a spring steel braid, the anchor would be constrained within a sheath in the delivery configuration and dynamically expanded to the deployed configuration upon removal of the sheath.

In FIG. 20, valve piece 600 is described in greater detail. FIG. 20A illustrates valve piece 600 in a collapsed delivery configuration, while FIG. 20B illustrates the valve piece in an expanded deployed configuration. Valve piece 600 comprises replacement valve 610 coupled to expandable frame 620. Replacement valve 610 is preferably biologic, although synthetic valves may also be used. Replacement valve 610 preferably comprises three leaflets 611 coupled to three posts 621 of expandable frame 620. Expandable frame 620 is preferably formed from a continuous piece of material and may comprise tips 622 in the collapsed delivery configuration, which expand to form hoop 624 in the deployed configuration. Hoop 624 is adapted to engage groove section 570 of anchor piece 550 for coupling anchor piece 550 to valve piece 600. As with anchor piece 550, valve piece 600 may be balloon expandable and coupled to a balloon delivery catheter in the delivery configuration. Alternatively, anchor piece 550 may be self-expanding, e.g. Nitinol or wire mesh, and constrained within a sheath in the delivery configuration.

Referring again to FIG. 21, a method for deploying valve piece 600 and coupling it to deployed anchor piece 550 to form two-piece apparatus 510 is described. In FIG. 21A, valve piece 600 is advanced within anchor piece 550 in an at least partially compressed delivery configuration. In FIG. 21B, tips 622 of frame 620 are expanded such that they engage groove section 570 of anchor piece 550. In FIG. 21C, frame 620 continues to expand and form hoop 624. Hoop 624 flares out from the remainder of valve piece 600 and acts to properly locate the hoop within groove section 570. FIG. 21D shows valve piece 600 in a fully deployed configuration, properly seated and friction locked within groove section 570 to form composite anchor/valve apparatus 510.

Anchor piece 550 and valve piece 600 of apparatus 510 preferably are spaced apart and releasably coupled to a single delivery catheter while disposed in their reduced delivery configurations. Spacing the anchor and valve apart reduces a delivery profile of the device, thereby enabling delivery through a patient's aorta without requiring a transseptal approach. With reference to FIG. 22, a first embodiment of single catheter delivery system 700 for use with apparatus 510 is described. Delivery system 700 is adapted for use with a preferred self-expanding embodiment of apparatus 510.

Delivery system 700 comprises delivery catheter 710 having inner tube 720, middle distal tube 730, and outer tube 740. Inner tube 720 comprises lumen 722 adapted for advancement over a standard guide wire, per se known. Middle distal tube 730 is coaxially disposed about a distal region of inner tube 720 and is coupled to a distal end 724 of the inner tube, thereby forming proximally-oriented annular bore 732 between inner tube 720 and middle tube 730 at a distal region of delivery catheter 710. Outer tube 740 is coaxially disposed about inner tube 720 and extends from a proximal region of the inner tube to a position at least partially coaxially overlapping middle distal tube 730. Outer tube 740 preferably comprises distal step 742, wherein lumen 743 of outer tube 740 is of increased diameter. Distal step 742 may overlap middle distal tube 730 and may also facilitate deployment of valve piece 600, as described hereinbelow with respect to FIG. 25.

Proximally-oriented annular bore 732 between inner tube 720 and middle distal tube 730 is adapted to receive skirt section 580 and groove section 570 of anchor piece 550 in the reduced delivery configuration. Annular space 744 formed at the overlap between middle distal tube 730 and outer tube 740 is adapted to receive lip section 560 of anchor piece 550 in the reduced delivery configuration. More proximal annular space 746 between inner tube 720 and outer tube 740 may be adapted to receive replacement valve 610 and expandable frame 620 of valve piece 600 in the reduced delivery configuration.

Inner tube 720 optionally may comprise retainer elements 726 a and 726 b to reduce migration of valve piece 600. Retainer elements 726 preferably are fabricated from a radiopaque material, such as platinum-iridium or gold, to facilitate deployment of valve piece 600, as well as coupling of the valve piece to anchor piece 550. Additional or alternative radiopaque elements may be disposed at other locations about delivery system 700 or apparatus 510, for example, in the vicinity of anchor piece 550.

With reference now to FIG. 23, an alternative delivery system for use with apparatus of the present invention is described. Delivery system 750 comprises two distinct catheters adapted to deliver the anchor and valve pieces, respectively: anchor delivery catheter 710′ and valve delivery catheter 760. In use, catheters 710′ and 760 may be advanced sequentially to a patient's diseased heart valve for sequential deployment and coupling of anchor piece 550 to valve piece 600 to form composite two-piece apparatus 510.

Delivery catheter 710′ is substantially equivalent to catheter 710 described hereinabove, except that catheter 710′ does not comprise retainer elements 726, and annular space 746 does not receive valve piece 600. Rather, valve piece 600 is received within catheter 760 in the collapsed delivery configuration. Catheter 760 comprises inner tube 770 and outer tube 780. Inner tube 770 comprises lumen 772 for advancement of catheter 760 over a guide wire. The inner tube optionally may also comprise retainer elements 774 a and 774 b, e.g. radiopaque retainer elements 774, to reduce migration of valve piece 600. Outer tube 780 is coaxially disposed about inner tuber 770 and preferably comprises distal step 782 to facilitate deployment and coupling of valve piece 600 to anchor piece 550, as described hereinbelow. Valve piece 600 may be received in annular space 776 between inner tube 770 and outer tube 780, and more preferably may be received within annular space 776 between retainer elements 774.

Referring now to FIG. 24, another alternative delivery system is described. As discussed previously, either anchor piece 550 or valve piece 600 (or portions thereof or both) may be balloon expandable from the delivery configuration to the deployed configuration. Delivery system 800 is adapted for delivery of an embodiment of apparatus 510 wherein the valve piece is balloon expandable. Additional delivery systems—both single and multi-catheter —for deployment of alternative combinations of balloon and self-expandable elements of apparatus of the present invention will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the illustrative delivery systems provided in FIGS. 22-24.

In FIG. 24, delivery system 800 comprises delivery catheter 710″. Delivery catheter 710″ is substantially equivalent to delivery catheter 710 of delivery system 700, except that catheter 710″ does not comprise retainer elements 726, and annular space 746 does not receive the valve piece. Additionally, catheter 710″ comprises inflatable balloon 802 coupled to the exterior of outer tube 740″, as well as an inflation lumen (not shown) for reversibly delivering an inflation medium from a proximal region of catheter 710″ into the interior of inflatable balloon 802 for expanding the balloon from a delivery configuration to a deployed configuration. Valve piece 600 may be crimped to the exterior of balloon 802 in the delivery configuration, then deployed and coupled to anchor piece 550 in vivo. Delivery catheter 710″ preferably comprises radiopaque marker bands 804a and 804b disposed on either side of balloon 802 to facilitate proper positioning of valve piece 600 during deployment of the valve piece, for example, under fluoroscopic guidance.

With reference now to FIG. 25, in conjunction with FIGS. 19-22, an illustrative method of endovascularly replacing a patient's diseased heart valve using apparatus of the present invention is described. In FIG. 25A, a distal region of delivery system 700 of FIG. 22 has been delivered through a patient's aorta A, e.g., over a guide wire and under fluoroscopic guidance using well-known percutaneous techniques, to a vicinity of diseased aortic valve AV of heart H. Apparatus 510 of FIGS. 19-21 is disposed in the collapsed delivery configuration within delivery catheter 710 with groove section 570 and skirt section 580 of anchor piece 550 collapsed within annular bore 732, and lip section 560 of anchor piece 550 collapsed within annular space 744. Valve piece 600 is disposed in the collapsed delivery configuration between retainer elements 726 within more proximal annular space 746. Separation of anchor piece 550 and valve piece 600 of apparatus 510 along the longitudinal axis of delivery catheter 710 enables percutaneous aortic delivery of apparatus 510 without requiring a transseptal approach.

Aortic valve AV comprises native valve leaflets L attached to valve annulus An. Coronary ostia O are disposed just proximal of diseased aortic valve AV. Coronary ostia O connect the patient's coronary arteries to aorta A and are the conduits through which the patient's heart muscle receives oxygenated blood. As such, it is critical that the ostia remain unobstructed post-deployment of apparatus 510.

In FIG. 25A, a distal end of delivery catheter 710 has been delivered across diseased aortic valve AV into the patient's left ventricle LV. As seen in FIG. 25B, outer tube 740 is then retracted proximally relative to inner tube 720 and middle distal tube 730. Outer tube 740 no longer coaxially overlaps middle distal tube 730, and lip section 560 of anchor piece 550 is removed from annular space 744. Lip section 560 self-expands to the deployed configuration. As seen in FIG. 25C, inner tube 720 and middle tube 730 (or all of delivery catheter 710) are then distally advanced until lip section 560 engages the patient's native valve leaflets L, thereby providing positive registration of anchor piece 550 to leaflets L. Registration may be confirmed, for example, via fluoroscopic imaging of radiopaque features coupled to apparatus 510 or delivery system 700 and/or via resistance encountered by the medical practitioner distally advancing anchor piece 550.

Lip section 560 may be dynamically repositioned until it properly engages the valve leaflets, thereby ensuring proper positioning of anchor piece 550 relative to the native coronary ostia O, as well as the valve annulus An, prior to deployment of groove section 570 and skirt section 580. Such multi-step deployment of anchor piece 550 enables positive registration and dynamic repositioning of the anchor piece. This is in contrast to previously known percutaneous valve replacement apparatus.

As seen in FIG. 25D, once leaflets L have been engaged by lip section 560 of anchor piece 550, inner tube 720 and middle distal tube 730 are further distally advanced within left ventricle LV, while outer tube 740 remains substantially stationary. Lip section 560, engaged by leaflets L, precludes further distal advancement/migration of anchor piece 550. As such, groove section 570 and skirt section 580 are pulled out of proximally-oriented annular bore 732 between inner tube 720 and middle distal tube 730 when the tubes are distally advanced. The groove and skirt sections self-expand to the deployed configuration, as seen in FIG. 25E. Groove section 570 pushes native valve leaflets L and lip section 560 against valve annulus An, while skirt section 580 seals against an interior wall of left ventricle LV, thereby reducing paravalvular regurgitation across aortic valve AV and precluding proximal migration of anchor piece 550.

With anchor piece 550 deployed and native aortic valve AV displaced, valve piece 600 may be deployed and coupled to the anchor piece to achieve percutaneous aortic valve replacement. Outer tube 740 is further proximally retracted relative to inner tube 720 such that valve piece 600 is partially deployed from annular space 746 between inner tube 720 and outer tube 740, as seen in FIG. 25F. Expandable frame 620 coupled to replacement valve 610 partially self-expands such that tips 622 partially form hoop 624 for engagement of groove section 570 of anchor piece 550 (see FIG. 21B). A proximal end of expandable frame 620 is engaged by distal step 742 of outer tube 740.

Subsequent re-advancement of outer tube 740 relative to inner tube 720 causes distal step 742 to distally advance valve piece 600 within anchor piece 550 until tips 622 of expandable frame 620 engage groove section 570 of anchor piece 550, as seen in FIG. 25G. As discussed previously, groove section 570 comprises additional material and reduced openings or gaps G, as compared to previously known apparatus, which is expected to reduce native valve tissue protrusion through the gaps and facilitate engagement of tips 622 with the groove section. Outer tube 740 then is proximally retracted again relative to inner tube 720, and valve piece 600 is completely freed from annular space 746. Frame 620 of valve piece 600 fully expands to form hoop 624, as seen in FIG. 25H.

Hoop 624 friction locks within groove section 570 of anchor piece 550, thereby coupling the anchor piece to the valve piece and forming composite two-piece apparatus 510, which provides a percutaneous valve replacement. As seen in FIG. 25I, delivery catheter 710 may then be removed from the patient, completing the procedure. Blood may freely flow from left ventricle LV through replacement valve 610 into aorta A. Coronary ostia O are unobstructed, and paravalvular regurgitation is reduced by skirt section 580 of anchor piece 550.

Referring now to FIG. 26, an alternative embodiment of two-piece apparatus 510 is described comprising an alignment/locking mechanism. Such a mechanism may be provided in order to ensure proper radial alignment of the expandable frame of the valve piece with the groove section of the anchor piece, as well as to ensure proper longitudinal positioning of the frame within the hoop. Additionally, the alignment/locking mechanism may provide a secondary lock to further reduce a risk of the anchor piece and the valve piece becoming separated post-deployment and coupling of the two pieces to achieve percutaneous valve replacement.

In FIG. 26, apparatus 510′ comprises valve piece 600′ of FIG. 26A and anchor piece 550′ of FIG. 26B. Anchor piece 550′ and valve piece 600′ are substantially the same as anchor piece 550 and valve piece 600 described hereinabove, except that anchor piece 550′ comprises first portion 652 of illustrative alignment/locking mechanism 650, while valve piece 600′ comprises second portion 654 of the alignment/locking mechanism for coupling to the first portion. First portion 652 illustratively comprises three guideposts 653 coupled to skirt section 580′ of anchor piece 550′ (only one guidepost shown in the partial view of FIG. 26B), while second portion 654 comprises three sleeves 655 coupled to posts 621′ of expandable frame 620′ of valve piece 600′.

When anchor piece 550′ is self-expanding and collapsed in the delivery configuration, guideposts 653 may be deployed with skirt section 580′, in which case guideposts 653 would rotate upward with respect to anchor piece 550′ into the deployed configuration of FIG. 26B. Alternatively, when anchor piece 550′ is either balloon or self-expanding and is collapsed in the delivery configuration, guideposts 653 may be collapsed against groove section 570′ of the anchor piece and may be deployed with the groove section. Deploying guideposts 653 with skirt section 580′ has the advantages of reduced delivery profile and ease of manufacturing, but has the disadvantage of significant dynamic motion during deployment. Conversely, deploying guideposts 653 with groove section 570′ has the advantage of minimal dynamic motion during deployment, but has the disadvantage of increased delivery profile. Additional deployment configurations will be apparent to those of skill in the art. As will also be apparent, first portion 652 of alignment/locking mechanism 650 may be coupled to alternative sections of anchor piece 550′ other than skirt section 580′.

Sleeves 655 of second portion 654 of alignment/locking mechanism 650 comprise lumens 656 sized for coaxial disposal of sleeves 655 about guideposts 653 of first portion 652. Upon deployment, sleeves 655 may friction lock to guideposts 653 to ensure proper radial and longitudinal alignment of anchor piece 550′ with valve piece 600′, as well as to provide a secondary lock of the anchor piece to the valve piece. The secondary lock enhances the primary friction lock formed by groove section 570′ of the anchor piece with hoop 624′ of expandable frame 620′ of the valve piece.

To facilitate coupling of the anchor piece to the valve piece, suture or thread may pass from optional eyelets 651 a of guideposts 653 through lumens 656 of sleeves 655 to a proximal end of the delivery catheter (see FIG. 27). In this manner, second portion 654 of mechanism 650 may be urged into alignment with first portion 652, and optional suture knots (not shown), e.g. pre-tied suture knots, may be advanced on top of the mechanism post-coupling of the two portions to lock the two portions together. Alternatively, guideposts 653 may comprise optional one-way valves 651 b to facilitate coupling of the first portion to the second portion. Specifically, sleeves 655 may be adapted for coaxial advancement over one-way valves 651 b in a first direction that couples the sleeves to guideposts 653, but not in a reverse direction that would uncouple the sleeves from the guideposts.

Referring now to FIG. 27, an alternative embodiment of apparatus 510′ comprising an alternative alignment/locking mechanism is described. Apparatus 510″ is illustratively shown in conjunction with delivery system 700 described hereinabove with respect to FIG. 22. Valve piece 600″ is shown partially deployed from outer tube 740 of catheter 710. For the sake of illustration, replacement valve 610″ of valve piece 600″, as well as inner tube 720 and middle distal tube 730 of delivery catheter 710, are not shown in FIG. 27.

In FIG. 27, anchor piece 550″ of apparatus 510″ comprises first portion 652′ of alignment/locking mechanism 650′, while valve piece 600″ comprises second portion 654′ of the alternative alignment/locking mechanism. First portion 652′ comprises eyelets 660 coupled to groove section 570″ of anchor piece 550″. Second portion 654′ comprises knotted loops of suture 662 coupled to tips 622″ of expandable frame 620″ of valve piece 600″. Suture 661 extends from knotted loops of suture 662 through eyelets 660 and out through annular space 746 between outer tube 740 and inner tube 720 (see FIG. 22) of catheter 710 to a proximal end of delivery system 700. In this manner, a medical practitioner may radially and longitudinally align valve piece 600″ with anchor piece 550″ by proximally retracting sutures 661 (as shown by arrows in FIG. 27) while distally advancing distal step 742 of outer tube 740 against valve piece 600″ until tips 622″ of the valve piece engage groove section 570″ of anchor piece 550″. Proximal retraction of outer tube 740 then causes expandable frame 620″ to further expand and form hoop 624″ that friction locks with groove section 570″ of anchor piece 550″, thereby forming apparatus 510″ as described hereinabove with respect to apparatus 510. A secondary lock may be achieved by advancing optional suture knots (not shown) to the overlap of eyelets 660 and knotted loops of suture 662. Such optional suture knots preferably are pre-tied.

With reference now to FIG. 28, yet another alternative embodiment of apparatus 510′, comprising yet another alternative alignment/locking mechanism 650, is described. First portion 652″ of alignment/locking mechanism 650″ is coupled to anchor piece 550′″ of apparatus 510′″, while second portion 654″ is coupled to valve piece 600′″. The first portion comprises male posts 670 having flared ends 671, while the second portion comprises female guides 672 coupled to tips 622′″ of expandable frame 620′″ of valve piece 600″′.

Female guides 672 are translatable about male posts 670, but are constrained by flared ends 671 of the male posts. In this manner, anchor piece 550′″ and valve piece 600′″ remain coupled and in radial alignment with one another at all times—including delivery—but may be longitudinally separated from one another during delivery. This facilitates percutaneous delivery without requiring a transseptal approach, while mitigating a risk of inadvertent deployment of the anchor and valve pieces in an uncoupled configuration. Additional alignment/locking mechanisms will be apparent in view of the mechanisms described with respect to FIGS. 26-28. 

1. A method for endovascularly replacing a patient's native heart valve, the method comprising: delivering an expandable anchor and a replacement valve to a vicinity of the native heart valve, wherein leaflet engagement elements extend distally from a proximal region of the anchor; sandwiching native valve leaflets between the distally extending leaflet engagement elements and the anchor; and expanding the anchor from a collapsed delivery configuration to an expanded configuration; positioning a proximal end of the anchor further from a left ventricle than a distal end of the anchor, wherein the replacement valve allows the flow of blood through the replacement valve in a first configuration and prevents the flow of blood through the valve in a second configuration.
 2. A method for endovascularly replacing a patient's native heart valve, the method comprising: delivering an expandable anchor and a replacement valve to a vicinity of the native heart valve, wherein leaflet engagement elements extend distally from a first end of the anchor; sandwiching native valve leaflets between the distally extending leaflet engagement elements and the anchor; and expanding the anchor from a collapsed delivery configuration to an expanded configuration; positioning the first end of the anchor further from a left ventricle than a second end of the anchor, wherein the replacement valve allows the flow of blood through the replacement valve in a first configuration and prevents the flow of blood through the valve in a second configuration.
 3. A method for endovascularly replacing a patient's native heart valve, the method comprising: delivering an expandable anchor and a replacement valve to a vicinity of the native heart valve, wherein leaflet engagement elements extend distally from a proximal end of the anchor; sandwiching native valve leaflets between the distally extending leaflet engagement elements and the anchor; and expanding the anchor from a collapsed delivery configuration to an expanded configuration to secure the anchor within the native heart valve; positioning the proximal end of the anchor further from a left ventricle than a distal end of the anchor, wherein the replacement valve allows the flow of blood through the replacement valve in a first configuration and prevents the flow of blood through the valve in a second configuration.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein expanding the anchor from a collapsed delivery configuration to an expanded configuration comprises allowing the anchor to self-expand to thereby sandwich the native valve leaflets between the distally extending leaflet engagement elements and the anchor.
 5. The method of claim 3 wherein the leaflet engagement elements extend generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the expandable anchor when the anchor is in the expanded configuration.
 6. The method of claim 3 wherein the expandable anchor and the replacement valve are delivered as two separate elements, the method further comprising deploying the expandable anchor and the replacement valve in the vicinity of the native heart valve in two different steps.
 7. The method of claim 6 further comprising engaging the expandable anchor and the replacement valve after they are deployed in the vicinity of the native heart valve to secure the replacement heart valve to the expandable anchor.
 8. The method of claim 7 wherein the replacement heart valve comprises an expandable support structure and replacement valve leaflets, and wherein engaging the expandable anchor and the replacement valve in the vicinity of the native heart valve comprises coupling the expandable anchor and the expandable support structure to secure the replacement heart valve to the expandable anchor. 